The opening scene of Love Actually always inspires me to remember that love is all around. Even though it often feels like we live in a world dominated by anger and hatred, my daily experiences tell a different story.
I see kindness and love in abundance—people speaking words of encouragement, clerks helping elderly customers with their bags, and children rushing into the arms of their parents after school. I hear parents praising their children with words of pride and admiration. How blessed am I to witness such moments!
Inspired by these experiences, I’ve decided to make “LOVE” my theme for the year. Obvious as it may sound, it’s a powerful way to reconnect with my core values. Since I was a young adult, my personal mission has been to share love with others—a lofty goal, no doubt. Over time, I’ve learned that sharing love in the closest places of my life is often the most challenging yet rewarding endeavor of all.
This year, let's bring about change by prioritizing love, and enhancing kindness and connection in both our personal lives and leadership roles. Here are 3 steps to guide us:
1. Speak and Share Love with Yourself
Loving oneself isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation for loving others. When we judge or demean ourselves, even in the silence of our own minds, those negative thoughts often seep out into our interactions with others. But when we practice self-compassion and extend grace to ourselves, that same kindness flows naturally to those we lead and serve.
I’ll never forget a moment of clarity I had with my mother-in-law. For years, I thought her judgments were aimed at me. One evening, as I washed dishes at her house, I noticed her hitting her forehead and saying, “Stupid, stupid, stupid!” Confused, I turned to her, and she explained, “I’ve been lifting this heavy dishpan full of water onto the counter since Jack passed. How could I be so stupid?”
In that moment, I realized her self-judgment was far harsher than anything she had ever directed toward me. In fact, she had often offered me words of admiration that I hadn’t fully received until that moment. I hugged her, and we shared tears of understanding.
This experience reminded me how crucial it is to speak love and kindness to ourselves. When we do, we’re better equipped to lead with grace and empathy.
2. Speak and Share Love with Others
It’s amazing how a simple act of kindness or a heartfelt compliment can brighten someone’s day. I remember a busy holiday shopping trip when a stranger complimented my blouse. Her kind words immediately lifted my spirits, and we had a fun conversation about our holiday plans. That brief interaction left me humming along to the holiday music overhead and feeling joyful for the rest of the day.
In leadership, these moments can be just as impactful. Whether it’s a genuine compliment, a word of encouragement, or a heartfelt thank-you, small acts of kindness can transform a team’s morale.
I’ve also been deeply shaped by the love and support others have shown me throughout my life. Professors who spent extra time mentoring me, friends who checked in during tough seasons, and colleagues who shared words of encouragement have all left lasting impressions. As leaders, we have the opportunity to create those same meaningful moments for others.
3. Seek and Receive Love from Others
As servant leaders, we often give freely—our time, energy, and support—but we sometimes struggle to ask for the love and help we need. However, seeking and receiving love isn’t selfish. It’s a vital act of self-care that allows us to lead from a place of wholeness.
I’ve learned that when my need for love goes unmet, I can become overly controlling in an effort to compensate. Instead, admitting that I need support allows me to build stronger connections and reduces unnecessary stress. Receiving love is an act of vulnerability that strengthens us as leaders and as human beings.
Let’s make this a year of not only giving love but also allowing ourselves to receive it. It’s a practice that can enrich both our personal and professional lives.
Lead with Love in 2025
As we begin this new year, let’s commit to leading with love—starting with ourselves, extending to others, and allowing ourselves to receive love in return. Love isn’t just an abstract concept; it’s an actionable force that can transform our relationships and the way we lead.
As Love Actually reminds us, “Love actually is all around.” Let’s make 2025 a year where we live and lead with this truth in mind.
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